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When confronted with a traumatic event, people may suffer from adverse posttraumatic outcomes, such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or complex PTSD (CPTSD). Positive psychology research has shown that meaning in life and vitality are potentially correlated protective factors against negative developments following trauma exposure that can lead to PTSD or CPTSD. This systematic review aimed to synthesize global empirical research findings, emphasizing the impact of meaning in life and vitality on both PTSD and CPTSD. A search of empirical studies was performed within the Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science core collection databases, as well as PsycInfo, using the PRISMA checklist. A total of 29 studies were included after a systematic exclusion process. The collective findings from 22 studies examining meaning in life and five studies focusing on vitality revealed a consistent negative association with symptoms of PTSD. No study that explored the associations among meaning in life, vitality, and CPTSD was found. In contrast to vitality, meaning in life has been extensively studied in relation to traumatic stress worldwide, and few discrepancies in results were found. This systematic review identified the need to intensify scientific efforts in capitalizing on meaning in life as a possible target for psychological interventions, especially for trauma survivors globally, and to consider vitality as a protective factor that needs more empirical attention in relation to posttraumatic stress. Furthermore, there is a need for studies that encompass diverse target samples and employ longitudinal study design to examine the associations between protective factors and CPTSD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ICD‐11 features a new group of disorders specifically associated with stress, which are interlinked by various symptoms, such as intrusive memory symptoms. Although research interest in these new ICD‐11 diagnoses is growing rapidly, so far, no studies have systematically investigated the transdiagnostic distribution of stress‐associated symptoms in these disorders. In the present study, 447 individuals completed a series of online questionnaires, which measured various stress‐associated symptoms, e.g., flashbacks, preoccupation or yearning. Findings showed that the majority of correlations between the measured psychopathological constructs was between 0.30 and 0.60. Furthermore, with regard to specific diagnostic groups, a complex variation of stress‐associated symptoms was observed, with preoccupation as a predominant symptom in all disorders. Results demonstrate that stress‐associated symptoms are inherently interconnected yet possess an individual variation in different disorders. Furthermore, findings illustrate that preoccupation represents a major feature in all stress‐associated disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The purpose of this systematic review (SR) was to present the current state of research on historical trauma, and the topics closely related to its semantic space that include intergenerational trauma, collective trauma, and extended cultural bodily and mental responses, in order to identify gaps in the literature that need to be addressed. Methods: A search of empirical studies from 1990 to 2022 was performed via Scopus, Web of Science, MEDLINE, EBSCOhost‐PsychInfo, and Embase, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) checklist. Results: The initial search yielded 1012 studies, 52 of which were included in the current review. The results show that the historical trauma concept has a high potential for new research in the field of Global Mental Health. Gaps in the literature were identified, including a lack of standard features of historical trauma, and assessments of historical trauma in additional contexts than its original fields of application with Indigenous Americans. Conclusion: Although the introduction of the concept of historical trauma was intended to fill the gap of trauma‐related difficulties not covered by the criteria of post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), this concept needs further scientific refinement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Existential isolation refers to an individual's awareness of the unbridgeable gulf between oneself, other people and the world. This kind of isolation has been found to be higher in individuals with nonnormative experiences, such as racial or sexual minorities. Bereaved individuals may experience a stronger sense of existential isolation and feel that no one shares their feelings or perceptions. However, research on bereaved people's experiences of existential isolation and its effects on post‐loss adaptation is scarce. This study aims to validate the German and Chinese versions of the Existential Isolation Scale, investigate cultural and gender differences in existential isolation and explore the associations between existential isolation and prolonged grief symptoms in German‐speaking and Chinese bereaved individuals. Methods: A cross‐sectional study with 267 Chinese and 158 German‐speaking bereaved participants was conducted. The participants completed self‐report questionnaires assessing existential isolation, prolonged grief symptoms, social networks, loneliness and social acknowledgement. Results: The results indicated that the German and Chinese versions of the Existential Isolation Scale demonstrated adequate validity and reliability. No cultural or gender differences (or their interaction) were found for existential isolation. Higher existential isolation was associated with elevated prolonged grief symptoms, which was further moderated by the cultural group. The relationship between existential isolation and prolonged grief symptoms was significant for the German‐speaking bereaved people but not significant for those from China. Conclusion: The findings highlight the role of existential isolation in the adaptation to bereavement and how different cultural backgrounds moderate the effect of existential isolation on post‐loss reactions. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the therapeutic needs of aging Holocaust survivors, no randomized controlled trial (RCT) of psychotherapy exists for this population, with very few on older adults in general. This RCT aimed to compare the efficacy of Life Review Therapy for Holocaust survivors (LRT‐HS) relative to a supportive control group. Holocaust survivors with a probable diagnosis of full or subsyndromal posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depressive disorder were included. Exclusion criteria were probable dementia, acute psychotic disorder, and acute suicidality. The predefined primary endpoint was the course of PTSD symptom scores. In total, 49 of 79 consecutive individuals assessed for eligibility were randomized and included in the intent‐to‐treat analyses (LRT‐HS: n = 24, control: n = 25; Mage= 81.5 years, SD = 4.81, 77.6% female). Linear mixed models revealed no statistically significant superiority of LRT‐HS for PTSD symptoms at posttreatment, with moderate effect sizes, Time x Condition interaction: t(75) = 1.46, p =.148, dwithin = 0.70, dbetween = 0.41, but analyses were significant at follow‐up, with large effect sizes, t(79) = 2.89, p =.005, dwithin = 1.20, dbetween = 1.00. LRT‐HS superiority for depression was observed at posttreatment, t(73) = 2.58, p =.012, but not follow‐up, t(76) = 1.08, p =.282, with moderate effect sizes, dwithin = 0.46–0.60, dbetween = 0.53–0.70. The findings show that even in older age, PTSD and depression following exposure to multiple traumatic childhood events can be treated efficaciously using an age‐appropriate treatment that includes structured life review and narrative exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Historical trauma is a relatively new concept in the literature, and investigations are needed to clarify its clinical aspects and develop instruments to measure its sequelae. The purpose of this study was to develop the Clinical Aspects of Historical Trauma Questionnaire (CAHTQ), which is meant to capture trauma sequelae in different contexts, and provide initial psychometric information. Participants were survivors of the genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda (N = 261) aged 32–87 years (M = 46.30 years, SD = 11.95) who completed a preliminary version of the CAHTQ, constructed based on theoretical and content‐related consideration, as well as the International Trauma Questionnaire, Fatalism Scale, Public Health Depression Questionnaire, Brief Coping Inventory, Forgiveness Questionnaire, and Sentiment of Reconciliation Questionnaire to test the discriminant and convergent validity of the CAHTQ. Exploratory factor analysis was conducted to reduce the number of items and extract factors; confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted to confirm the measure's dimensionality. The final questionnaire includes 20 items and five subscales. The items demonstrated good internal consistency, Cronbach's α =.91, and the CFA demonstrated a very good fit of the model to the data, χ2(60, N = 261) = 271, CFI =.963 = , TLI =.956, SMRR =.052, RMSEA =.052. The CAHTQ was developed to capture the clinical aspects of historical trauma sequelae. Unlike comparable previously developed instruments, this questionnaire can be used for various historical traumas globally, and its suitability for this purpose will be the focus of future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ICD‐11 has introduced a new conceptualization of adjustment disorder (AjD) as a stress response syndrome with core symptoms of preoccupations and failure to adapt to the stressor. The current study aimed to assess the reliability and validity of the International Adjustment Disorder Questionnaire (IADQ) in two culturally distinct samples from Israel and Switzerland. Two samples were recruited in Israel (N = 1142) and Switzerland (N = 699) during the initial stages of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Confirmatory factor analysis indicated that a correlated two‐factor model provided an excellent fit to the Israeli and Swiss sample data. The IADQ scores correlated strongly with another measure of AjD symptoms and with symptoms of depression, anxiety, acute stress and negative emotions, whereas correlations with posttraumatic stress disorder, complex posttraumatic stress disorder and positive emotions were weaker. In the Swiss sample, 18.8% met diagnostic criteria for probable AjD and 10.2% in the Israeli sample. The current study provides the first evidence of the validity of the German and Hebrew versions of the IADQ and can be used for the screening of this debilitating condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study proposes and tests a cascade model of complex posttraumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) focusing on childhood trauma and maltreatment, attachment, and socio‐interpersonal factors. Multigroup path analysis was used to examine data from 126 individuals formerly affected by compulsory social measures and placements (CSMP) in their childhood and/or adolescence (i.e., risk group [RG]; M age = 70.8 years) and an age‐matched control group (CG; n = 125; M age = 70.6 years). The final model confirmed the cascade structure, with stronger associations emerging in the RG. Childhood trauma and maltreatment were associated with attachment anxiety, β = |.20|–.30, which was related to all socio‐interpersonal factors (i.e., disclosure of trauma, social acknowledgment, and social support), β =.27–|.54|; the latter were associated with substantial aspects of the CPTSD symptoms as well as life satisfaction, β = |.21|–.42. Among participants in the CG, we observed more direct, rather than mediated, paths to CPTSD symptoms. Adulthood trauma exposure did not follow the full cascade pattern but was associated with the socio‐interpersonal factors. Nevertheless, more in‐depth clinical knowledge of CPTSD and potential targets for psychological treatment may be gained from the confirmation of this newly proposed cascade model of CPTSD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While chronic and acute stress are often associated with negative health, the sense of coherence–revised (SOC‐R) is proposed to facilitate coping with stress and promote health. However, research is lacking on the specific mechanisms. Therefore, the current study aimed to investigate potential mediating and moderating mechanisms of SOC‐R in the relationship between stress and health. Using a cross‐sectional design, standardized questionnaires assessed SOC‐R, acute (perceived) stress, early‐life adversity (ELA; indicator for early‐life chronic stress), mental and physical health, and satisfaction with life. Mediation and moderation analyses were conducted with N = 531 Irish adults (mean age: 59.5 years; 58.4% female). Regarding acute (perceived) stress, results showed that SOC‐R and its Manageability subscale significantly mediated the association between perceived stress and mental health, and satisfaction with life. SOC‐R and its Manageability subscale also significantly moderated the association between perceived stress and mental health. Regarding ELA, the Manageability subscale significantly mediated the association between ELA and mental health, and satisfaction with life; and the Balance subscale significantly mediated the association between ELA and physical health. SOC‐R may provide a useful focus for stress‐related research, with future longitudinal studies needed to examine SOC‐R as a long‐term modulating pathway between stress and health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the ICD‐11 diagnostic guidelines, preoccupation has been introduced as the new core symptom of adjustment disorder. Despite this essential innovation, preoccupation has so far largely been defined as rumination and worry and does not feature a distinct character as an independent symptom. In order to investigate the nature of preoccupation, various cognitive approaches are evaluated and linked to preoccupation. Furthermore, the aim of this review is to define preoccupation more precisely and to distinguish it from other symptoms in psychopathology. The evaluation of key features of cognitive dissonance theory, attention bias theory, memory theories, and other cognitive paradigms indicates that preoccupation is constituted by a complex interaction of cognitive–emotional mechanisms. In addition, this review implies that preoccupation in AjD can be defined as stressor‐related factual thinking, which is time‐consuming and often associated with negative emotions. It is assumed that rumination and dysfunctional worry serve as reactive processes to cope with preoccupation. For further distinction, this review presents similarities and differences of preoccupation and other symptoms, including negative automatic thoughts, flashbacks, and yearning. Finally, implications and suggestions for future research on preoccupation are offered. Overall, it is plausible that preoccupation is not only associated with adjustment disorder but also possesses a transdiagnostic character. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ICD‐11 includes a new definition of adjustment disorder (AjD). The present study aimed to examine interrater reliability, internal consistency, and construct validity of a new diagnostic interview module to assess ICD‐11 AjD. Data from two studies that used a standardized diagnostic interview assessment (i.e., DIA‐X/M‐CIDI and updated DIA‐X‐5) were used. For interrater reliability, agreement indicators (i.e., κ) were calculated using data from the DIA‐X‐5 test–retest study (N = 60). To examine internal consistency and construct validity, Cronbach's alpha values and the Kuder–Richardson correlation coefficient were computed along with confirmatory factor and latent class analyses (LCA), using data from the Zurich Adjustment Disorder Study (N = 330). Interrater reliability analyses found an adjusted kappa of 0.807 for the ICD‐11 AjD diagnosis. Few items from the impairment criterion of the diagnostic algorithm performed poorly. The internal consistency was acceptable, Cronbach's αs =.43–.80; the lower‐bound estimate resulted from the two‐item preoccupation symptom pattern. However, both items were significantly associated, OR = 3.14, 95% CI [1.97, 4.99]. Regarding LCA results, a two‐class model was favored. We found that 94.3% of all ICD‐11 AjD cases belonged to Class 2, OR = 23.69, 95% CI [7.15, 79.54], which was associated with subjectively rated distress, OR = 2.18, 95% CI [1.57, 3.02], and the external measure of the Brief Symptom Inventory global severity index, OR = 2.18, 95% CI [1.57, 3.02]. Overall, the new AjD interview module provided a reliable, valid assessment of the ICD‐11 diagnosis; confirmation by other studies is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concept of psychological trauma implies that people experiencing traumatic stress are wounded, thus relating to the metaphor of a physical injury. Although this notion is widely accepted by clinicians and researchers in mental health, there is evidence of a broad range of metaphorical idioms for extremely aversive experiences or catastrophic events across different cultures. In this ethnopsychological study, we aimed to investigate and contrast culturally shared metaphors for trauma among four distinct cultural groups: two indigenous communities (Pitaguary from Brazil, Adivasis from India) and two rural communities (mountain villagers of Gondo, Switzerland; the Lemko ethnic minority in Poland). The communities in Brazil and in Poland were marked by historical trauma, and the communities in India and Switzerland each suffered from a natural disaster. Semistructured interviews that focused on metaphors shared within each community were conducted with key informants and laypersons (Brazil: N = 14, India: N = 28, Poland, N = 13, Switzerland: N = 9). We conducted separate metaphor analyses, then cross-culturally contrasted the findings from the four samples. Across the four cultural groups, we found similar metaphorical concepts of trauma related to bodily processes, such as shock, burden, and wound. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The present study aims to investigate the quality of the dyadic relationship between mild Alzheimer patients and their caregivers. The main objective is to evaluate the consistency, agreement and validity of the German version of the Scale for Quality of the Current Relationship in Caregiving (SQCRC). The secondary objective was to examine the association of relationship quality with quality of life (QOL) in patients with mild Alzheimer's disease (AD) and their caregivers. Methods: In this study, a sample of 50 patients diagnosed with mild AD and their primary caregivers were included. Participants underwent a full neuropsychological evaluation. The quality of the relationship between persons with AD and their caregivers was assessed using the SQCRC. Furthermore, other scales of relationship quality, well‐being of the person with AD, and well‐being of the caregiver were used. Results: The results showed that the SQCRC has a good internal consistency and high validity. Also, relationship quality as rated by the AD patients (r = 0.37, P < 0.1) and their caregivers (r = 0.51, P < 0.1) was significantly correlated with QOL. Conclusions: The findings suggest that many persons with mild AD can rate their relationship quality and that the patient's self‐rated relationship quality is a substantial predictor of their QOL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Traumatic Stress is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study examined the circular structure of values in China. The circular structure is a central element of Schwartz value theory and visualises the idea that some values are similar while others conflict with one another. Whereas numerous studies addressed the question whether the circular structure of values can be generalised cross‐culturally, results for China are inconclusive. In this paper, we argue that taking a closer look at China provides a challenge to the circular structure and allows for drawing conclusions regarding the limits versus generalizability of Schwartz' theory. For this purpose, we first conduct a re‐analysis of Chinese data from a former meta‐analysis (Study 1) and second, present results from a large study of 10,652 Chinese college students (Study 2). Results of Study 1 revealed that graphical representation of the circular structure matched theoretical expectations but five out of six samples showed relatively bad fit to the theorised structure. By contrast, data in Study 2 showed a good model fit. As an overall conclusion, the circular structure is well supported in the Chinese context, and small sample sizes in previous studies might have caused the imperfect match to the prototypical circular structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the May 2017 expert meeting led by the Zurich Trauma Group, a research group at the University of Zurich which focuses on trauma psychology and post-traumatic stress disorder. Topics considered included Jungian psychology; differences in attitudes towards trauma, stress, and depression in the Global North and East Asia; and cultural psychology.

Abstract: In preparation for ICD‐11, the adjustment disorder (AjD) diagnosis has undergone considerable revisions; however, the latent structure of AjD remains uncertain. It is unclear whether AjD is best represented as a unidimensional or multidimensional construct. This study performed a comprehensive assessment of the latent structure of AjD symptomatology and assessed its concurrent and discriminant validity. Individuals who experienced involuntary job loss (N = 333) completed a self‐report measure of AjD symptoms. Seven alternative models of AjD were tested using confirmatory factor analysis. General psychological distress, impairment in social functioning, occupational self‐efficacy, and sense of coherence were used as criterion variables for construct validity. In the confirmatory factor analysis, a bifactor solution with one dominant general AjD factor and 5 correlated group factors (preoccupation, failure‐to‐adapt, avoidance, affective reaction, and impulsivity) provided optimal fit. As expected, the AjD factor showed strong positive associations with general psychological distress and impairments in social functioning and moderately negative associations with occupational self‐efficacy and sense of coherence. With regard to unidimensionality or multidimensionality of AjD symptoms, the current results indicate the plausibility of a unidimensional conceptualization. Future research should focus on essential key characteristics and a reduction of symptoms for the AjD definition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adjustment disorder (AjD) is a frequent but under-researched diagnosis due in part to a lack of specific symptom criteria and adequate tools of measurement. The ICD-11 for the first time proposes a positive symptom catalogue to define AjD. This study presents a validation of the Adjustment Disorder - New Module (ADNM), the first symptom severity measure for AjD according to the ICD-11 concept. Validity and sensitivity to change were investigated in a sample of 190 individuals with a DSM-IV diagnosis of AjD. The ADNM scales demonstrated convergent and discriminant validity for anxiety symptoms (Hamilton Anxiety Scale; psychic anxiety r = 0.18-0.31), functional impairment (Sheehan Disability Scale; r = 0.18-0.47), and depression (Montgomery-Asberg Depression Scale; r = 0.13-0.30). At baseline 78% of the individuals with a DSM-IV diagnosis of AjD were also classified so by the ADNM. Repeated-measures ANOVA indicated significant ADNM-symptom decrease during treatment, replicating the patterns of the Hamilton Anxiety Scale, Sheehan Disability Scale, and Clinical Global Impression Scale. This article presents the first use of the ADNM as a measure for ICD-11 AjD in a randomized-controlled intervention study of AjD. It provides support for the construct validity and sensitivity to symptom change of this scale during pharmacological treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 11th edition of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11; World Health Organization, 2017) proposes a model of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that includes 6 symptoms. This study assessed the ability of a classification-independent measure of posttraumatic stress symptoms, the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (Weiss & Marmar, 1996), to capture the ICD-11 model of PTSD. The current study also provided the first assessment of the predictive validity of ICD-11 PTSD. Former East German political prisoners were assessed in 1994 (N = 144) and in 2008-2009 (N = 88) on numerous psychological variables using self-report measures. Of the participants, 48.2% and 36.8% met probable diagnosis for ICD-11 PTSD at the first and second assessments, respectively. Confirmatory factor analysis supported the factorial validity of the 3-factor ICD-11 model of PTSD, as represented by items selected from the Impact of Event Scale-Revised. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis demonstrated that, controlling for sex, the symptom clusters of ICD-11 PTSD (reexperiencing, avoidance, and sense of threat) significantly contributed to the explanation of depression (R2 = .17), quality of life (R2 = .21), internalized anger (R2 = .10), externalized anger (R2 = .12), hatred of perpetrators (R2 = .15), dysfunctional disclosure (R2 = .27), and social acknowledgment as a victim (R2 = .12) across the 15-year study period. Current findings add support for the factorial and predictive validity of ICD-11 PTSD within a unique cohort of political prisoners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The development of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5th edition (DSM-5) and ICD-11 has led to reconsideration of diagnostic criteria for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The World Mental Health (WMH) Surveys allow investigation of the implications of the changing criteria compared to DSM-IV and ICD-10.Methods: WMH Surveys in 13 countries asked respondents to enumerate all their lifetime traumatic events (TEs) and randomly selected one TE per respondent for PTSD assessment. DSM-IV and ICD-10 PTSD were assessed for the 23,936 respondents who reported lifetime TEs in these surveys with the fully structured Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI). DSM-5 and proposed ICD-11 criteria were approximated. Associations of the different criteria sets with indicators of clinical severity (distress-impairment, suicidality, comorbid fear-distress disorders, PTSD symptom duration) were examined to investigate the implications of using the different systems.Results: A total of 5.6% of respondents met criteria for "broadly defined" PTSD (i.e., full criteria in at least one diagnostic system), with prevalence ranging from 3.0% with DSM-5 to 4.4% with ICD-10. Only one-third of broadly defined cases met criteria in all four systems and another one third in only one system (narrowly defined cases). Between-system differences in indicators of clinical severity suggest that ICD-10 criteria are least strict and DSM-IV criteria most strict. The more striking result, though, is that significantly elevated indicators of clinical significance were found even for narrowly defined cases for each of the four diagnostic systems.Conclusions: These results argue for a broad definition of PTSD defined by any one of the different systems to capture all clinically significant cases of PTSD in future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common reaction to traumatic experiences. We propose a socio-interpersonal model of PTSD that complements existing models of post-traumatic memory processes or neurobiological changes. The model adds an interpersonal perspective to explain responses to traumatic stress. The framework draws from lifespan psychology, cultural psychology and research into close relationships and groups. Additionally, clinical knowledge about PTSD is incorporated. This involves knowledge about shame, guilt, estrangement feelings and protective factors, such as social support and forgiveness. Three levels are proposed at which relevant interpersonal processes can be situated and should be adequately researched. First, the individual level comprises social affective states, such as shame, guilt, anger and feelings of revenge. Second, at the close relationship level, social support, negative exchange (ostracism and blaming the victim), disclosure and empathy are proposed as dyadic processes relevant to PTSD research and treatment. Third, the distant social level represents culture and society, in which the collectivistic nature of trauma, perceived injustice, and social acknowledgement are concepts that predict the response trajectories to traumatic stress. Research by the current authors and others is cited in an effort to promote future investigation based on the current model. Methodological implications, such as multi-level data analyses, and clinical implications, such as the need for couple, community or larger-level societal interventions, are both outlined. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Key Practitioner Message The socio-interpersonal model proposes an interpersonal view of the processes that occur in the aftermath of a traumatic experience., At the individual level, the model integrates the social affective phenomena that clinical research identifies in PTSD patients, including shame, guilt, anger, revenge and the urges or reluctance to disclose., At the level of close relationships, there is an emphasis on the role of the individuals' partner, family or social support in the development or maintenance of PTSD and its recovery., At the distant social level, societal and cultural factors, e.g., individualistic versus collectivistic or other human value orientations, are acknowledged as contributing to the severity and course of PTSD., Increasing attention should be given to new approaches of PTSD treatment that refer to an interpersonal view of PTSD, e.g., communication training, PTSD-specific couples' therapy or community programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Traumatic Stress is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objectives. Treatment effects on post-traumatic growth (PTG) and its subdomains were investigated together with predictors of the Janus-face model of PTG. Design. Effects were investigated within a randomized controlled trial of cognitive-behavioural theropy (CBT) for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Method. Forty motor vehicle accident survivors were randomly assigned to a treatment or waiting condition. PTG was measured by the Post-traumatic Growth Inventory and complemented by its possible predictors (optimism, openness). Results. The CBT treatment proved to be highly effective in terms of PTSD symptom reduction. In contrast to previous findings, however, there was no treatment effect on PTG in general. The CBT group showed, however, increases in PTG subdomains 'new possiblities' and 'personal strength'. Conclusions. The results of this study caution researchers to naively expect PTG as a uniformly positive outcome to evaluate treatment effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. The influence of cultural factors on mental health is not disputed in general -- but elaborated research approaches are still lacking. We investigate cultural influences not only by nationality but also by value orientation (modern vs. traditional). A cross-cultural comparison with Chinese and German crime victims included an assessment of value orientation according to Schwartz's theory (Schwartz, 1994) of personal values. Design. Chinese and German adult crime victims were assessed. By means of structural equation multi-sample analysis, data of the two groups were compared. Method. Traditional (conformity, benevolence, customs orientation) and modern values (achievement, hedonism, stimulation), traumatic exposure, posttraumatic stress (PTS). and two self-perceived interpersonal mediator processes (disclosure intentions, social acknowledgement as a victim) were assessed by self-report measures in 130 Chinese and 151 German crime victims. Results. The two patterns of prediction for PTS differed between the countries: In the German sample both value types but in the Chinese sample only traditional values were directly or indirectly predictive of PTS. Traditional values inhibited social acknowledgement as a victim in China and Germany. In Germany, traditional values were related to increased PTS severity. Modern values predicted social acknowledgement as well as lower symptoms in Germany. but not in China. Conclusions. The study shows cultural and interpersonal factors that may contribute to the development of PTSD that are under-researched in contemporary psychology and psychotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the targets of anger that are most strongly involved in posttraumatic anger. Using a sample of 218 crime victims, the authors assessed the levels of anger at potential targets (perpetrator, criminal justice system, third persons, and the self) and their association with severity of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. The results revealed that anger was most strongly directed at the perpetrator and at the self, and that anger at other targets was low. Moreover, anger at the perpetrator and at the self showed strong associations with PTSD symptoms, whereas the associations of anger at other targets with PTSD symptoms were low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Posttraumatic growth (PTG), the phenomenon of self-reported positive outcomes of trauma, is assumed to consist of two sides: a constructive and an illusory side. This study investigates the relationship between PTG and its possible illusory and constructive predictors, as well as the moderating role of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) severity. One-hundred two motor vehicle accident (MVA) survivors with full, subsyndromal, and without PTSD were assessed by multiple psychometric measures targeting PTSD severity, posttraumatic growth, optimism, and openness to experience. Hierarchical regression analysis yielded differential interaction effects between PTSD severity and optimism, as well as openness facets pointing to the moderating role of PTSD severity in the prediction of an illusory and a constructive factor in PTG. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol. 64: 245–263, 2008. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Only recently have psychotherapeutic interventions for complicated grief been developed and evaluated in randomized controlled trials. These trials have reported significant reductions in complicated grief and related symptoms in response to treatment relative to control groups. However, little is known about the long-term outcomes of these treatments. The authors present an evaluation of a 1.5-year follow-up of an Internet-based cognitive–behavioral intervention for complicated grief. Treatment group patients (n = 22) were administered various assessments of complicated grief indicators, including the Impact of Event Scale, the anxiety and depression subscales of the Brief Symptom Inventory, and the SF-12. Results indicate that the reduction in symptoms of complicated grief observed at posttreatment was maintained at 1.5-year follow-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The commentary highlights some of the key points to emerge from the paper by Hobfoll, Hall, Canetti-Nisim, Galea, Johnson, and Palmieri (2007 , in this issue) about the relationship between posttraumatic growth and action, psychological functioning, and cognitive processing. In our commentary, we question the sequence of steps that Hobfoll et al. took to critique current theoretical cognitive models of posttraumatic growth. On the basis of the Janus-face model ( Maercker & Zöllner, 2004 ) of posttraumatic growth, we argue that, in addition to a cognitive core, posttraumatic growth may, but does not necessarily, involve an action component. Ce commentaire souligne quelques-unes des idées maîtresses de l’article de Hobfoll & al. concernant la relation existant entre le développement post-traumatique et l’action, le fonctionnement psychologique et les processus cognitifs. Nous nous interrogeons sur les étapes que les auteurs retiennent pour critiquer les modèles cognitifs théoriques actuels du développement post-traumatique. A partir du modèle bifacial de Maercker & Zöllner, nous défendons l’idée qu’en plus d’un noyau cognitif le développement post-traumatique peut s’accompagner d’une composante action, mais que ce n’est pas nécessaire. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development and validation of a new measure of social acknowledgment as a victim or survivor is presented, whose items were derived from previous research on social recovery factors of post-traumatic stress disorder. The Social Acknowledgment Questionnaire (SAQ) was administered to nontreatment seeking traumatized persons—178 former political prisoners in East Germany and 151 recently traumatized interpersonal crime victims. Principal components analysis yielded three factors—Recognition as victim, General disapproval, and Family disapproval. The factors showed high internal consistency and good test-retest reliability; correlated moderately to strong with measures of PTSD severity, social support, and reluctance to talk about the trauma. In comparison to a conventional measure of social support, the SAQ predicted comparably better between persons with high- and low-PTSD severity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aftereffects of the Dresden bombing of February 1945 on 47 survivors were investigated using a comprehensive framework of trauma sequelae including pathogenetic, salutogenetic, and further mediating or moderating variables. A relatively low rate of PTSD symptomatology was noted. Traumatic exposure was related to current PTSD symptoms and to personal growth, with no systematic relationships between the 2 outcome variables. PTSD symptoms were primarily related to external control, whereas personal growth was primarily associated with internal control. Religious belief in the afterlife moderated effects between exposure and posttraumatic avoidance or personal growth. Furthermore, belonging to particular age groups at traumatization (adolescents, middle-aged adults) was associated with increased posttraumatic intrusions at the time of data collection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the relationships among trauma severity, initial trauma reactions, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, and dissociation in a group of 98 former East-German political prisoners. Trauma severity and initial reactions were assessed using a persecution checklist and a coping process questionnaire. PTSD symptoms were assessed through a structured clinical interview. Chronic dissociation was evaluted using the Dissociative Experiences Scale. The two assumptions of the study were confirmed by structural equation modeling: (1) Lifetime PTSD symptoms were predominantly predicted by initial reactions to trauma and (2) chronic dissociation was predominantly predicted by trauma severity. The first finding is discussed in relation to the participants' initial trauma processing. The second finding is discussed especially in the context of trauma duration and dissociation-prone coping attempts. Limitations concerning the long-term interval between traumatization and data collection are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the appropriateness of different diagnostic criteria sets for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This was done by varying diagnostic criteria on the diagnosis of PTSD in a study group of N = 146 former political prisoners, and comparing the resulting diagnostic groups with a study group of N = 75 nontraumatized controls with regard to mean scores on measures of subjective distress (i.e., IES-R, BDI, BAI, SCL-90-R). The findings did not support the diagnostic boundaries as defined by the DSM-IV or the lowering of the avoidance criterion from three to two symptoms. The concept of partial PTSD appeared to be the most appropriate way to provide diagnostic coverage for those who did not meet full DSM IV criteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigates the thematic pameters of complicated grief among subjects who had recently experienced spousal loss using a narrative coding system. Absence of systematic relationship between corresponding positive and negative themes; Coping strategies; Prevalence of facial expressions of positive emotions; Prerequisites for complicated grief.

We address the general perspective of the World Health Organization towards the classification process of the 11th revision of the International Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems ( ICD-11); give a short description of the ICD-11 proposals related to 'disorders specifically associated with stress' and the differentiation between posttraumatic stress disorder, complex posttraumatic stress disorder, and prolonged grief disorder; and comment on the most important aim of classifying mental disorders-to provide the best treatments available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]